The Creator's Perspective: Week Four in the Studio

By Kate Hilliard

We still have a long way to go, but there is a very clear understanding of what we have created together. After spending four weeks discussing what it means to be present, our definitions vary. There is however a consensus that living presently does not negate the past nor does it prevent us from setting goals for the future. We understand the act of being present includes constantly recognizing the immediate world around us. To live presently we ask ourselves to be open to possibility and sensitive to others. We are aware of when people leave and how it makes us feel. We understand that everything leaves an imprint.

I am grateful to Laurence Gingold for his thoughtful contemplation of how to accompany these ideas with sound. I have learned so much about how to include music in the creative process and have asked myself many difficult questions. What is the difference between musically commenting as opposed to making the sound apart of the environment? Laurence talks about the difference between integrating and interpreting. This came as a huge revelation - we continue to work towards a goal where the music (which will be performed live) is as much a part of the work as every other aspect of the piece.

Working with a group of artists that take such initiative and ownership of the work at hand is a gift. Lauren Ferebee took the time to write about a few situations in her life that she relates to our research in the studio. I am moved daily by her commitment to this project. The entire cast has supported me in a way that has been very special and I am so thankful for their generosity.

While We were Waiting a movement research for five actors and one pianist will open on July 14th at The Stella Adler Studio of Acting.